Michele Kang serves as the club president at Olympique Lyonnais. Following John Textor‘s departure, Michele Kang was appointed as the club’s president, becoming the first female president to hold this title in Lyon‘s history. Michele Kang is an American businesswoman, entrepreneur, and investor. She is particularly known for her significant investments in women’s football and club ownerships.
Career and Investments
She is the founder of Cognosante, a company operating in the health technology sector. In the sports industry, she owns Washington Spirit, one of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) teams, and London City Lionesses from England.
Relationship with Lyon
In 2023, she became part of the club structure by acquiring a majority stake in Olympique Lyonnais‘ women’s football team OL Féminin. Following administrative changes at the club, she was appointed as the president and chairman of the board of directors for the entire Olympique Lyonnais club, including the men’s football team, in June 2025.
Examples of Other International Female Club Presidents
While women are relatively in the minority in the management or presidency of top-tier clubs in the football world, there are international examples:
1. Leila Pereira (Palmeiras): She serves as the president of Palmeiras, one of Brazil’s well-established and giant clubs. She is the first female president in the club’s history and leads a team that is ambitious in both local leagues and international tournaments.
2. Amaia Gorostiza (SD Eibar): She has long served as the president of SD Eibar, a Basque club with a history in Spanish La Liga and Segunda División.
3. María Teresa Rivero (Rayo Vallecano): She is among the recognized female presidents in Spanish football’s past; she served as president of Rayo Vallecano for many years.
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